More Information about Lingaraj Temple Bhubaneshwar

The Lingaraj Temple is one of the most famous temples that are situated in the state of Orissa. This temple is not only well known as a religious site but also as one of the architectural splendors of the state.

This temple is situated in the capital city of Orissa, that is, Bhubaneswar. Yayati Kesari established this temple. This temple was created in 617 to 657 A D. It was created to worship Lord Shiva.

The architectural work of the Lingaraj Temple at Orissa represents one of the best specimens of Kalinga school of architecture. In fact, it is one of the most popular works of architecture in the city of Bhubaneswar.

The Lingaraj Temple is commonly considered to be one of the most important pithas in India that are dedicated to Lord Shiva. This temple is named after the Shiva ling worshiped here.

The Lingaraj Temple of Orissa is surrounded by a number of other Hindu temples, though they are smaller in size. All these small temples along with the Lingaraj Temple are together termed a temple complex. There are as many as 65 other temples near the Lingaraj Temple.

The temple premises have a length of 520 feet and width of 465 feet. The temple has gates in three different directions namely south, east and north. The total height of the Lingaraj Temple in Orissa is 180 feet.

This temple can be easily accessed by the tourists, as Bhubaneswar is well connected to many other important places of India by air, rail and road.

Architecture of Lingaraj Temple

The remarkable structure of the temple gives the tint of Kalinga style of architecture. The aesthetic sculptures look at their apex in this architectural exhibition. Erected in red sandstone, Lingraj Temple has the stone of the darkest shade. The huge temple complex covers the vast lands of Bhubaneshwar in a stretch. The tall spire of the temple extends to the height of 55 meters and literally, dominates the skyline of Bhubaneshwar. The spacious courtyard comprises 50 small shrines that are dedicated to several Gods of the Hindu pantheon.

All the shrines are safe under the kind fortification made by the massive walls that are carved beautifully with sculptures. One can enter the temple complex through 'Simha Dwara' (the Lion's Gate), where lions flank both the sides, crushing elephants under their feet. An optical effect is produced with the deep cut warped lines that run perpendicularly on the spire. Due to this, the temple looks much larger than what actually it is. Moreover, the spire of the temple has diminutive replicas of itself in the steeples that are incorporated perfectly in the entire structure of the temple.

How to Reach Lingaraj Temple Bhubaneshwar Orissa

By Air :The nearest airport to The Lingaraj Temple is Bhubaneshwar.

By Rail : The nearest station to The Lingaraj Temple is Bhubaneshwar.

By Road : One can easily reach Lingaraj Temple by taking local buses or by hiring Taxis from the city of Bhubaneshwar.